Year 4 News
Reading
Our Year 4 students have been working hard as we make our way through Charlotte’s Web. We are now halfway through the novel, and the students have been thoroughly engaged and excited by the events unfolding in each chapter. There’s always a buzz of anticipation as we prepare to read the next part of the story!
Throughout the term, we’ve explored a range of reading strategies to deepen our understanding, including comparing and contrasting characters, identifying themes, answering retrieval questions, and summarising key events. These strategies have helped students connect with the text in meaningful ways.
In addition to our novel study, we’ve also been enjoying our weekly library sessions. These are a great opportunity for students to explore books of their own choice and foster a love of independent reading.
Writing
Poetry Slam!
Our Year 4 students have been immersing themselves in the world of poetry, exploring various forms and techniques to express their creativity. They've crafted original poems, experimenting with rhythm, rhyme, and vivid imagery. To showcase their work, the students will participate in a lively poetry slam, presenting their creations in a supportive and vibrant atmosphere.
Maths
Over the past two weeks, our Year 4 students have been developing their skills in collecting and interpreting data, as well as learning how to read and use maps. In our data unit, students have used Google Sheets to create a variety of graphs, including pictographs, pie charts, and line graphs, using given data sets. They’ve been learning how to analyse information and discuss what the data shows in different formats.
In our mapping and coordinates work, students have explored how to interpret grid references, use coordinates to locate positions, and give directions using compass points such as north, south, east and west. To bring this learning to life, students played battleships to practise grid coordinates and even created their own treasure maps! Students also took part in a scavenger hunt around the school—using coordinates and compass directions to guide their way. These hands-on activities have helped students connect their maths learning to real-world situations in a fun and engaging way. Ask your child to show you a graph they’ve made or explain what features they included on their treasure map!
Students played battleship to practise their coordinates.
Inquiry
In Inquiry, our Year 4 students have continued their exploration of Earth and Space Science. Over the past fortnight, we’ve been learning about the fascinating interaction between the Sun, Earth, and Moon — including how they orbit and affect one another.
We’ve also extended our learning by investigating how people told time before clocks were invented. This led us to the study of sundials. Students had a hands-on opportunity to create their own sundials and test them out in the sunlight. Much to their excitement, many of them turned out to be surprisingly accurate!
Social and Emotional Learning
Our students have been honing their social and emotional skills by exploring the impact of their choices. They've learned to identify friendly decisions—those that promote kindness and respect—and unfriendly decisions—those that can harm relationships. Through role-playing and guided discussions, they've practiced problem-solving techniques to navigate challenges and make responsible decisions. These activities are designed to enhance self-awareness, empathy, and interpersonal skills, fostering a positive and supportive classroom environment.
Special Event
Auslan
This week, students explored Auslan (Australian Sign Language) and had fun learning signs related to daily life and school. They practiced words like "teacher," "sit," and "toilet", building their confidence in using sign language to communicate. It was a great opportunity to develop both language skills and inclusivity in the classroom.